Update: $27,000 taken from Abilene Professional Firefighters Association

Update: A report filed with the Abilene Police Department indicated $27,000 was taken. The report said the Abilene Professional Firefighters Association has documentation and wants to press charges for theft.

Original story: The Abilene Professional Firefighters Association discovered a member made unauthorized withdrawals and "other irregularities" regarding its funds, according to a Wednesday news release from the association.

The news release states:

"The Abilene Professional Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 1044, Abilene, Texas, has had the honor of serving our members and the community of Abilene since January 20 of 1950. There have been many events and issues that have affected our membership — challenges and moments of joy. However, today is one event that is presenting a challenge to our membership and our association.

"Recently, it was discovered after reviewing bank statements earlier this month that a member of our association had taken certain liberties with the association’s bank accounts — in the form of unauthorized withdrawals and other irregularities regarding the association funds.

"We are deeply saddened by this breach of trust. We wish to assure our members and the community that this breach does not affect our ability to operate and that steps have been taken to protect our viability.

"Although certainly a shock, steps to ensure and update our financial handling and responsibility to current financial best practices are being put in place to protect the long-term viability of the association and our members' interests.

"We look forward to continuing to serve not only our members but the Abilene community for years to come."